FROM MAGNA CARTA TO MODERN INDIA: THE JOURNEY AND TRANSFORMATION OF FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS

The concept of Fundamental Rights, deeply embedded in the Indian Constitution, is the cornerstone of democratic governance, ensuring the dignity and liberty of its citizens. This research paper traces the historical development of Fundamental Rights in India, from their ideological roots in documents like the Magna Carta and the American Bill of Rights to their formal incorporation into the Indian Constitution following the country’s independence. The drafting committee, led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, meticulously tailored these rights to suit the unique socio-political context of India, aiming to protect individual liberties against governmental excesses. The Indian judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, has played a significant role in interpreting and expanding these rights through landmark judgments such as Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala and K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India. It has stood true to the nomenclature of being the third pillar of the state machinery and, has time and again proven the need of the judicial system.

Major Constitutional Amendments, including the 42nd and 44th Amendments, have influenced the scope and application of Fundamental Rights. The evolution of Article 21, encompassing rights such as privacy, a clean environment, and cultural heritage, exemplifies the judiciary’s proactive stance in broadening the ambit of Fundamental Rights. Additionally, the paper explores emerging challenges and potential areas for future expansion, focusing on the rights of marginalized communities, environmental protection, and technological advancements. It argues for a dynamic interpretation of Fundamental Rights, one that adapts to the changing socio-economic and political realities of contemporary India. By analyzing the interplay between historical precedents, judicial activism, and legislative actions, this paper highlights the enduring significance of Fundamental Rights in safeguarding individual freedoms and promoting social justice in India.